Erma Bombeck: Legacy of Laughter

About This Episode

Erma Bombeck: Legacy of Laughter examines the extraordinary life and career of beloved American humorist Erma Bombeck (1927-1996), whose honest tales of domestic life gave voice to millions of homemakers. Archival photographs, video clips and personal memorabilia trace Bombeck's life, from her childhood during the Great Depression to her work as a women's rights activist.

The film is interspersed with uplifting and humorous interviews with Erma's family, friends and colleagues, including a touching on-camera introduction and narration by her neighbor and friend, former talk-show host Phil Donahue. Legacy of Laughter also features readings from some of Bombeck's best columns, and documents her continuing impact on readers, parents and writers today.